Church Anniversary!

Today is a GOOD day! One year ago today was the first time I stepped foot inside my church and it was a day that changed my life forever. I’ve never been a faithful person and didn’t imagine myself turning to God but for me, it took hitting my lowest low to finally reach out to someone who had more power than I had. From that day on, the more I learn about His love and the kind of person He’s calling me to be, the deeper I’m growing in my faith and the more I’m able to respect other people and want to be around people who are different than me. The more I’m able to understand another person’s point of view and realize that this whole life isn’t about me.

So why do I go to church every week and how has it helped me? I started going to church weekly because I just assumed that was the thing you do when you’re trying to have a relationship with God. I don’t think you have to go to church in order to have a relationship with God at all, though. I gain so much by having a preacher explain who is who in the Bible and what this and that verse meant when it was written and how it translates into today’s world. If I were to just pick up my Bible and start reading I would be so lost there would be no hope for me. Going to church helps me actually understand what I’m reading and helps me make sense of it all.

The time I worship most is when I’m singing. I am in my happy place being able to sing as loud as I want to, sitting in the third row from the stage, singing right along with our church’s band. It’s like a mini concert every single week to praise the One who is the only reason we’re all here! Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that each week!? Each week I’m able to bring whatever I’m dealing with, big or small, into church with me, worship, and let Him speak to me and guide me. I’ll be honest, it’s hard to have some quiet time with two toddlers running around but I try every single night after everyone is in bed to read my Bible or devotionals. It’s so great to have a church that has a kiddo ministry that my kids love which allows me the one on one time every week.

A year ago I didn’t have any involvement with other people of faith. I wouldn’t really get out and about and sort of dreaded it even though I’ve always enjoyed being around people. My anxiety of the whole thing though would stress me out way too much so walking into church was a huge step for me. I give so much credit to those who come to church for the first time ever, or after a long time of being away. It’s hard and intimidating! I have gained so much this past year I can hardly believe it!

I’ve started attending a Women’s Group once a week and have gained so many friendships through it. Real friends that I never would have had before if I hadn’t started going. Trust me when I tell you it was HARD for me to step into our Group Leader’s house the first time. I was shaking and so so anxious about it. You can ready about it here. Joining a group was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made and it’s opened my eyes to so many things about faith that I never would be known and I’ve grown so much deeper in my relationship with God through my group!

Trying to feel connected in a church as large as mine is can be tough and I was feeling convicted to step completely out of my comfort zone and audition for our church’s band. I was feeling like my voice was a way that I could help bring people to Jesus. I mean, people in my life who aren’t walking with Him might not come to a church service on their own, but they may come to hear me sing, right!? What an awesome way to show my love for my creator. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing when the staff called me in to welcome me to the Worship Team after about two months of auditions and training. I wanted to cry, but… I didn’t!

I could go on and on but I won’t. I want to enjoy this glorious day and celebrate in my heart with my maker <3